Changed course is a phrasal verb that means to alter the direction or path of something. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /tʃeɪndʒd kɔːrs/. The "ch" at the beginning is pronounced as /tʃ/, which is a voiceless palatal affricate. The "ed" at the end is pronounced as /d/, which is a voiced dental plosive. The "ou" in "course" is pronounced as /ɔː/, which is a mid-back rounded vowel. The spelling of this word follows the English language's irregular spelling patterns.
The term "changed course" refers to altering the direction, route, or path of something, usually due to a deliberate decision or adaptation to new circumstances. It implies a significant deviation or modification from a previous course of action. When an individual, organization, or any entity changes course, it means they have made a deliberate choice or taken action to steer themselves or their processes in a different direction, often with the aim of achieving different outcomes or responding to changing conditions.
The phrase can apply to various contexts, including personal, professional, or academic domains. In personal terms, changing course might entail altering one's lifestyle, behavior, or objectives, such as switching careers, ending a relationship, or pursuing a different educational path. Within an organizational setting, changing course may refer to adapting strategies, revising business plans, or reorienting operations to achieve improved results or respond to market shifts.
The concept of changing course often carries connotations of flexibility, adaptability, and evolution. It implies a willingness to reassess choices and make the necessary adjustments to achieve desired goals or navigate unforeseen challenges. While changing course may involve veering away from initial plans or abandoning previous approaches, it is ultimately about embracing new opportunities or circumventing obstacles to enhance overall effectiveness.
The etymology of the phrase changed course can be understood by examining the origins of its individual components.
1. Changed:
The word changed comes from the Middle English word chaungen, which was derived from the Old French term changer. This Old French word traces back to the Late Latin term cambiare, meaning to exchange or barter. It ultimately finds its roots in the Late Latin muttare, meaning to change or to transform. This root word can be linked to the Proto-Indo-European base *mei, which conveys the concept of change.
2. Course:
The word course is derived from the Old French term cours, which was influenced by the Latin word cursus meaning a running, a race, or a course. Cursus itself is derived from the verb currere, meaning to run.